In Shenhua's goalkeeping position, veteran goalkeeper Bao Yaxiong continues to hold the team's door; as for the backline, Coach Slutsky follows the tradition and will continue to use a four-guard layout. It is speculated that the starting four defenders will include Chen Jinyi, Jiang Shenglong, Jin Shunkai and Eddie Francis. Among them, Jiang Shenglong and Jin Shunkai will join hands to form the center back pairing, while Chen Jinyi and Eddie Francis will play the role of wing backs on each side.
In the midfield layout, French iron waist Ibrahim Amadou is undoubtedly the main back of Shanghai Shenhua, who specializes in interceptions and ball breaks. Partnering him in the center of the midfield is expected to be decorated veteran Wu Xi. In front of them, central midfielder Joao Teixeira will continue to take control up front and lead the team's attack. Echoing them on both sides of the flanks will be Brazilian outside back Andre Luiz and decorated veteran Yu Hanchao.
As for the forward line, Swiss senior center Mallet is expected to serve as the team's main point of attack for Shenhua. To summarize, Shanghai Shenhua's expected starting lineup against Henan is as follows: Bao Yaxiong; Chen Jinyi, Jiang Shenglong, Jin Shunkai, Eddie Francis; Wu Xi, Ibrahim Amadou; Andre Luiz, Yu Hanchao, Joao Teixeira; Mallet.
